It doesn’t take long to realise Iceland isn’t finished yet. Drive east of its cosmopolitan capital, Reykjavik, to cross a lava desert, witness the earth gasp and, at Skógafoss, see a river fall from the sky. Past Vik, glaciers grind on to beaches as black as soot. It feels less a road trip than a Viking saga – not bad for one day! Not enough time for a two-week circuit? My tip is balance Reykjavik with the untamed Westfjords.
Witnessing a country being born is half the appeal. The other is joining locals who treat their raw surroundings like a giant adventure playground. What do you fancy – hiking up active volcanoes, diving between tectonic plates in the Thingvellir National Park, riding Viking horses or simply lolling in the geothermic Blue Lagoon?
Apparently, 20% of Icelanders believe in elves. Spend time in this real Middle Earth and who’s to say they’re wrong?
9 holidays match your criteria.
Dramatic coastlines, glimmering fjords, wild creatures that take your breath away – the three Arctic islands of this 13-day trip are filled with sights that invigorate all the senses
Visit Svalbard, Greenland and Iceland in just two weeks
Explore the best of Iceland in autumn and search for the Northern Lights by sea and on land. You will spend three nights on the Ocean Diamond, journeying to the peninsulas of Snaefellsnes and Westfjords, with a range of exciting excursions which can be added to your itinerary.
Iceland is a fantastic but little known skiing destination, giving the opportunity to ski and sample some of the fantastic experiences this country has to offer including Aurora hunting.
Discover the delights of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula on our exclusive 3-4 night short break. Enjoy a private stay in a 3-bedroom lodge with sea and mountain views, plus car hire to explore the many waterfalls, mountains and rugged coastlines that surround. Our West Iceland Escape at Glacier Lodge is ideal for couples, friends and families alike!
This full-circuit trekking itinerary includes five of the best walking areas in Iceland
Complete Iceland's most famous hiking trail across the Fjallaback from Landmannalaugar to Thorsmork
The Northern Lights can be dramatic, eruptive, fleeting and enigmatic
Travel to Iceland and delve into the ancient land of Vikings and volcanoes on this 5-day Icelandic adventure